Also known as Sivu – the Finnish version of his surname – the 25-year-old has signed a deal with Atlantic Records and is set to take to the stage at some of the country’s top summer festivals.

His video for single Better Man Than He went viral, with 600,000 hits on YouTube and the approval of rapper M.I.A. Filmed in an MRI machine, it was captivating enough for her to declare it her video of the year.

Following his acclaimed Can’t Stop Now EP, which featured remixes from Bombay Bicycle Club and picked up support across Radio 1, 6Music and XFM, James is set to release new single Miracle (Human Error) on July 28.

With soaring melodies and distorted, aggressive guitars, it makes for a potent mix reminiscent of Radiohead.

It has been produced alongside long-time collaborator Charlie Andrew, who has recently completed alternative band Alt-J’s second album, due for release in September.

The former St Ivo pupil grew up in Hazel Way in the town before moving to Woodside Way, during which time he gained experience playing in school bands.

At 15, he started playing bass guitar with Sometimenever, performing at venues including the Portland Arms, Cambridge Junction and the Golden Lion, in St Ives.

James said: “I grew up in that band – it really prepared me for going out on my own. From a creative point of view it is better being on your own, but from a touring perspective I do miss being with my best friends and being in a band and the camaraderie of it all.

“My love for properly gigging was from St Ives, I used to do pub gigs and things like that. A lot of my inspiration was from growing up in a small town.”

He started writing solo songs two years ago, after moving to a flat on the 20th floor of a former council block in Kennington, London. He then began gigging in the capital and quickly created a buzz on music blogs while working in jobs ranging from call centre operator to shop assistant.

James said: “I feel really lucky – I’m very fortunate to have had the opportunities I’ve had. I’m just really looking forward to doing these gigs and seeing what comes from them.

“I remember being 17 and going to those festivals. If someone had told me then that I would be playing there I wouldn’t have believed them.”